Peyton Manning: ‘I’m not 100 percent’

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning says his right arm is still not at pre-surgery level.

Manning missed the 2011 season after having four neck surgeries, including a spinal fusion.

Manning, who signed with the Broncos in March 2012, has thrown 92 touchdown passes in the last two seasons, leading the Broncos to back-to-back 13-3 regular seasons.

“I’m not at a 100 percent compared to what I was before my surgery,” Manning said during an appearance on the “Late Show with David Letterman” on Monday night. “But I have made strides each season and this year felt a lot better than I did the year before. These nerves just go at their own pace.”

Manning also discussed how he is a different player now compared to the 13 seasons he payed with the Indianapolis Colts before his surgery.

“I used to sit in the mirror and just sort of go through my throwing motion trying to get the feel back the way I’d always thrown before,” Manning said. ” … Maybe I can’t throw the 100 mile-an-hour fastball any more, but I can still strike you out, picking my spots, working the plate. I don’t make the same kind of throws I used to make, I try to use the cerebral part, use my experience.”

Manning has participated in the Broncos’ offseason program and has no intentions of retiring.

“I have been rejuvenated these past two years after sitting a year out,” Manning said. ” … When you get back out there, boy, I’ve just been so grateful to get back out there with my teammates putting in the hard work.

“I still enjoy what I’m doing, the preparation part, and I still think I can help the team. If the Broncos say, ‘Hey we don’t need you any more,’ that’ll probably be the end of it. And as soon as I don’t feel like I can do the same things I’ve been doing that’s when I’ll stop playing.”